Can pregnant women drink water infused with lemon?

Generally speaking, pregnant women can drink lemon water, but they should consume it in moderation. A detailed explanation is as follows:

Lemon water contains citric acid, which can stimulate gastric acid secretion and help pregnant women improve their appetite, alleviating symptoms of poor appetite and morning sickness that may occur during early pregnancy. For pregnant women experiencing mild cold symptoms, drinking lemon water may help relieve discomfort in the throat and promote recovery from cold symptoms. Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which can enhance immunity and benefit both maternal and fetal health. The mild acidity of lemon water may also help promote gastrointestinal motility and improve digestion-related issues that may occur during pregnancy.

However, it should be noted that drinking lemon water on an empty stomach may increase acidity in the body and irritate the gastric mucosa, potentially causing symptoms such as bloating, stomach pain, or acid reflux. Pregnant women should use freshly cut lemons to prepare lemon water and avoid sun-dried lemons or commercially available pre-made lemon beverages that may contain numerous additives. If a pregnant woman has excessive stomach acid or gastrointestinal conditions such as gastritis or peptic ulcer disease, she should consume lemon water cautiously or only under a physician's guidance.

As lemon is naturally cooling in nature, it is recommended to prepare lemon water using warm water rather than water that is too hot or too cold. Pregnant women may combine lemon water with other ingredients or herbs, such as adding honey or Chinese dates (red dates), to enhance its benefits or improve the taste, but should ensure appropriate and moderate combinations. While drinking lemon water, pregnant women should continue regular prenatal checkups to ensure healthy fetal development.